Behavioral barriers to the use of renewable and energy-efficient technologies in residential buildings in Iran

In Iran, residential buildings contribute 28.4% to total energy consumption and 18.1% to total carbon dioxide emissions. However, there are several barriers that hinder energy efficiency in these buildings, including environmental, technical, financial, social, and legal factors. Among these barriers, behavioral obstacles are considered the most significant challenge to achieving energy-efficient buildings. The purpose of this paper is to examine the obstacles that prevent people from using renewable and energy-efficient technologies, and how they impact other barriers and potential solutions. The study used a combination of research methods, such as document analysis and semi-structured interviews, to create a questionnaire for 69 architectural experts in Iran. The data was then analyzed using principal component analysis (PCA) to understand the connection between the behavioral barriers. The study revealed that traditional education and a lack of online feedback are responsible for building occupants' lack of awareness. Unenforced regulations can also lead to a lack of motivation and interest, which ultimately results in resistance to behavioral change. In addition, inappropriate curtailing of behaviors and disregard for active and passive systems, as well as recycling strategies, can lead to high consumption behaviors. Weak government policies, a lack of practical solutions and design, and the absence of aesthetic and symbolic benefits are the underlying reasons why energy-efficient technologies are not appealing to consumers. The study's findings are a useful resource for policymakers in Iran and other countries to understand the current obstacles to improving residential building energy efficiency and to develop new solutions to overcome these obstacles.